Karla Smith
Verona
Tiny Orcival is a peaceable spot, despite the beastly origins of its name (the village is named for ‘vallée de l'ours’, ‘bear valley’). Today, this mountain-set village largely lures hikers and skiers. But since the 6th century, pilgrims have also been drawn to this unassuming spot. The reason lies deep within its stately slate-grey Romanesque masterpiece, the Basilique Notre-Dame. The structure standing today, with its octagonal belltower, was built on top of sacred tombs wrecked by Norman invaders. Since the 12th-century rebuild it has stood unchanged, a graceful silhouette watching over this otherwise sleepy village. The basilica’s beauty is best revealed in minuscule details, like animal and human-headed hinges fastening the south door to its frame. Within, the crypt keeps safe the Lady of Orcival icon, the focus of Ascension Day pilgrimages here.
Don't have an account yet? Sign Up
Thanks for sharing your experiences on Secret World. we appreciate your contribution to offer the best travel insights in the world..
NEVER STOP
DISCOVERING
THE LARGEST DIGITAL TRAVEL GUIDE
Buy Unique Travel Experiences
Total content , See more content on Viator.com >>